After a short speech in front of a small crowd of supporters at Wilmington International Airport early Wednesday afternoon, President Donald Trump and his motorcade headed for the Battleship North Carolina.
In 90-plus-degree heat, with sporadic rain sprinkles and thunder cracking in the background, President Trump named Wilmington, North Carolina the first official World War II Heritage City. Wilmington Mayor Bill Saffo was part of the invitation-only audience.
"It’s a big thing for our community and it’s a big thing for Wilmington. Captain Wilbur Jones has been working on this project for many, many years – over a decade. It started with Congressman McIntyre, and of course Senator Tillis and Senator Burr and Congressman Rouzer did a lot to make this happen today."
Saffo, one of the few Democratic officials in attendance, says the event is not about politics but about recognizing a key part of Wilmington’s rich history. He also says other cities are now eager for the designation.
